-
Phuket, Thailand
Start your adventure in Patong Beach for nightlife or Kata Beach for a chilled vibe. Don't miss the Big Buddha and grab a cheap pad thai at Phuket Town's Sunday Walking Street. Use Phuket as your base to arrange onward transport south.
-
Koh Phi Phi, Thailand
Take a ferry from Phuket to these iconic limestone islands made famous by The Beach. Snorkel at Maya Bay, party at the beachside bars, and join a sunset boat tour around Phi Phi Leh. Stay in the village on Phi Phi Don for the classic backpacker hostel scene.
-
Koh Lanta, Thailand
A laid-back island perfect for relaxing after the Phi Phi buzz, with long sandy beaches like Long Beach and Klong Dao. Rent a scooter and explore the old town on the east coast for great seafood by the water. It's a favourite among backpackers who want a slower pace.
-
Krabi, Thailand
Krabi Town is a great backpacker hub with cheap guesthouses and easy connections to multiple islands. Take a four-island boat tour, climb the Tiger Cave Temple for panoramic views, and hang out at Railay Beach only accessible by longtail boat. The Ao Nang beachfront is buzzing with restaurants and tour agencies.
-
Koh Tao, Thailand
Known as the dive capital of Southeast Asia, Koh Tao is where many backpackers get their PADI open water certification affordably. Sairee Beach is the lively backpacker strip with hostels, bars and beach parties. Even non-divers love snorkelling at Shark Bay to spot blacktip reef sharks.
-
Koh Phangan, Thailand
Home to the legendary Full Moon Party on Haad Rin Beach, one of the world's biggest beach parties happening monthly. Beyond the party scene, explore the quieter north of the island around Bottle Beach and Thong Nai Pan. There are plenty of cheap bungalows and yoga retreats for recovery days.
-
Koh Samui, Thailand
The biggest island in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui offers a mix of backpacker and resort vibes with Chaweng Beach being the liveliest area. Visit the famous Big Buddha temple and explore the Fisherman's Village in Bophut for great street food on Friday nights. It's also a convenient hub with flights and ferries to continue your journey.